Japanese baseball legend dies aged 89

Former baseball player Shigeo Nagashima, who was once one of Japan’s most famous sports stars, has died aged 89.

He died of pneumonia at a hospital in Tokyo, according to a statement released by his former team the Yomiuri Giants.

Nicknamed Mr Giants, Nagashima won nine straight titles with the team in the 1960s and 70s, playing in 2,186 games and hitting 444 home runs.

Commenting on his death, a government spokesman said Nagashima had given society “bright dreams and hopes”.

His ability – and charm – made him popular, at a time of increasing economic prosperity and growing confidence in Japan.

“He taught me lots of things. I’m grateful to have been able to play with him,” his former teammate, Sadaharu Oh, was quoted as saying. Oh, 85, still holds the world record for hitting the most home runs, and together, known as “O-N”, they were a lethal team on the pitch.

Shohei Ohtani, who is currently one of Japan’s most famous baseballers, and plays for the LA Dodgers, posted photos of himself with Nagashima on his Instagram page.

“May your soul rest in peace,” the 30-year-old wrote.

Nagashima, who also had the nickname Mr Pro Baseball, famously hit a winning home run at the first ever professional baseball game attended by the Japanese emperor, in 1959.

He retired in 1974 after a 17-year playing career – winning the Central League batting title six times.

Nagashima also helped the Giants win two Japan Series titles over 15 seasons as their manager.

The country’s chief cabinet secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi, said Nagashima was “a sunny person”.

“He left so many brilliant records in the world of professional baseball for many years and gave bright dreams and hopes to society as a national star,” he said.